Many families living abroad have relatives who leave property in Turkey. Inheriting it involves several steps that can usually be completed through a lawyer without travelling to Turkey.
Step 1: Certificate of inheritance
A certificate of inheritance (veraset ilamı) identifies the heirs and their shares. It can be obtained from a notary or, in cases involving foreign elements or wills, from the civil court of peace.
Step 2: Inheritance tax
An inheritance tax return must be filed with the tax office within the legal deadline (generally four months, longer for heirs abroad).
Step 3: Title transfer
With the certificate and tax clearance, the property is registered in the heirs’ names at the land registry. Heirs can then sell, divide or keep the property.
Disputes
If heirs disagree, a partition lawsuit can be brought after mandatory mediation. Where the deceased transferred property to one heir during their lifetime to exclude others, other heirs may challenge the transfer.
See our inheritance law page and power of attorney guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to obtain a certificate of inheritance?
Through a notary it can be issued quickly if all civil registry records are available; through the court it may take several weeks or months, especially when foreign documents are involved.
Is there inheritance tax in Turkey?
Yes. Heirs must file an inheritance tax return within the statutory period. Rates are progressive, and certain exemptions apply to descendants and spouses.
Member of the Bursa Bar (Reg. No 7458). Graduate of Ankara University Faculty of Law; former public prosecutor and chief public prosecutor.
